“These acts were at the height of their fame. Top bands begged their agents to get them a booking at Lancaster University. In all, over 500 bands graced this small stage, in a small hall, in a small city in the North West of England.

“Now, a superb book is about to be published, telling the full story of this unbelievable period, giving details of the performers and the shows, and revealing what went on backstage.”

A launch event for the book is due to be held at Lancaster University next month.